Amid rising concerns over effective allocation of funds, Michigan’s auditor general is gearing up to evaluate the state’s child care subsidy program. This initiative, known as the Child Development and Care program, supports low-income families by aiding in child care expenses.
The decision for an audit was prompted by Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt’s request. Nesbitt emphasized in a statement that the audit is beneficial for both legitimate child care providers and families in search of affordable child care solutions.
Highlighting prior concerns, Nesbitt pointed out the ineffectiveness of the program’s call center, which was cited in a November 2025 performance audit report as needing substantial improvements to handle provider inquiries.
Nesbitt stated, “What the auditor general’s doing is making sure that if there is any waste, fraud, and abuse that’s reported, that we correct any issues that’s in the program and that we make sure that every tax dollar that’s spent is being spent efficiently and effectively.”
Concerns over financial mismanagement resonate beyond Michigan. Recently, the federal government decided to halt child care payments to several states, including Minnesota and California, due to suspected fraud, although specifics were sparse.
The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, which oversees the child care initiative, reiterated its firm stance against fraud and system misuse.
Laura Hirst, the deputy auditor general of Michigan, has indicated through a letter to Senator Nesbitt that the audit process will commence in March 2026. It aims to highlight key issues and suggest operational enhancements.
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